Trilling Cisticola
NameTrilling Cisticola
Common NameTrilling Cisticola
Scientific NameCisticola woosnami
FamilyCisticolidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are greyish-brown, often with darker streaking on the back, contrasting with a rufous-brown cap. Underparts are whitish to pale buff. The tail is relatively short, and the bill is small and dark.
Vocalization / CallIts most characteristic vocalization is a high-pitched, sustained trill, often given in display flight or from a perch. It also produces various chirps and chattering calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound widely across sub-Saharan Africa, from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda east to Kenya and Tanzania, and south through Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to parts of Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Brownish cap, Plain greyish-brown plumage, Pale underparts, Distinctive trilling song, Short tail
Description
This small, rather plain cisticola is characterized by its brownish cap, greyish-brown upperparts, and pale underparts. It is best known for its distinctive, high-pitched trilling song, often delivered from a prominent perch or in flight.
